Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

I took a look back at my trip photos and was immediately inspired to share a bit about the places I loved in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. My mom has been visiting Provence since the 90s (often with us in tow) so I was really fortunate to have her as my guide!

First up, Les Comptoires des Alpilles. Saint-Remy actually has two Les Comptoires, one smaller shop in the center of town by City Hall and the other much larger one on the edge of the main road that encircles the town. I preferred the selection at the smaller location (pictured below); the pieces felt more Provencal and colorful versus the modern and hyper-neutral selection at the larger store.

Another concept store in town that Mom had recently been to and wanted to show me was Libellule. Whoever is curating the pieces in there certainly isn't afraid of color or the quirky. I really loved the lighting and glassware! Just down the street from Libellule was Aparté (pictured below). It is probably the polar opposite of Libellule; full of natural elements like linen and brass. They also had a gorgeous selection of pottery and mini-mirrors that I am kicking myself for not bringing home.

Across the alley from Diptyque there was a small store (which I think) was called Kuball & Kempe. Everything in there was quite expensive but it was all arguably art. Even though I don't have the budget to buy anything in high-end stores like that, I still like to go for inspiration. Also, you never know what you may see at a market so going to high-end stores can be education of sorts! From that same small street, I also loved ARum for gifts and men's fashion; their candles were so good and I had little-to-no sticker shock.

As for vintage wares, I liked the pieces in Les Jolies Choses. I thought the prices were very reasonable for a brick-and-mortar. Like I've said in previous posts, there aren't typically a lot of vintage dealers at the markets in smaller towns so if you aren't able to go to a brocante, this spot is a great alternative.

That said, we got lucky and were able to find a few at Saint-Rémy's Wednesday market--I think because it's a bigger town. Finally, there were a couple of places on my list that I didn't get to pop into.

First, as far as I can tell from instagram, La Boutique de Jeanne Bayol features stunning glassware and cool textiles. La Boutique des Jardins is another spot a little outside of town that apparently sources unique pieces from India where the owner spends the winter months. Lastly, I'm not sure how I missed this place but Ebene evidently carries various antiques and Pierre Frey linens!

I will end this with a note about shopping in Provence. I would generally avoid the shops with soaps and towels outside on display. That sounds silly given soaps and linens are some of the major souvenirs but those stores are akin to shops in Paris with berets and Eiffel Tower key chains. I would personally skip them and save yourself the time!

Anyway, as you can see this post has started to get long so I will save the attractions and restaurants for another time.